Environment agency Sepa has warned of a possible storm surge in parts of Scotland this afternoon.

It said high tides coupled with a large storm surge will affect the Forth estuary during Saturday afternoon and may affect low lying areas along the Firth of Forth.

Sepa warned people to avoid coastal promenades as waves and spray are likely on exposed areas.

It has issued 19 flood alerts and 20 flood warnings across Scotland.

The warning for Edinburgh and Lothians said: "High astronomical tides, coupled with a large storm surge forecast will affect the Forth estuary during Saturday afternoon and may affect low lying areas along the Firth of Forth. High tides are expected at around 4pm in this area.

"Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property."

Chris Burton, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, said: ''Saturday will not be too bad for most with a few showers in the west then heavy rain during the afternoon with a risk of sleet and snow, mainly on the high ground.

''Sunday will be dry and fine for a time, then wet and windy later on so there's not an end to the unsettled weather.''

Yesterday homes were flooded and people evacuated as a tidal surge combined with rain and high winds of more than 60mph battered the country.

Parts of the west coast were the worst hit, including towns such as Ardrossan, North Ayrshire, and Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire, with waves crashing over esplanades and roads engulfed in water.

Dumfries and Galloway was badly affected by flooding.

In Powfoot three families were evacuated to a farmhouse from Queensberry Bay Caravan Park while one person was evacuated from Creetown and a few families chose to leave their homes in Port William.

Properties were flooded at Isle of Whithorn, Portpatrick, Garlieston, Kirkcudbright, Annan, Carsethorn, Powfoot and Port William, the council said.

The harbour was also flooded in Garlieston and Kirkcudbright.

Aberdeen endured the strongest gust of wind, at 68mph, while a 66mph gust was recorded near Stranraer in Dumfries and Galloway.

Travel by road, rail and ferry was also disrupted by the adverse conditions.